Explanatory note

This Order brings into force on 1st February 1981 the provisions of the Domestic Proceedings and Magistrates' Courts Act 1978 mentioned in Schedule 1 to this Order.

Schedule 2 to this Order contains transitional provisions adapting certain provisions of the Act of 1978 under section 89(4) in consequence of the partial operation of the Children Act 1975, and in particular in consequence of the fact that Part II of the Act of 1975 (which deals with the custody of children) has not yet been brought into force.

Other Orders bringing into force provisions of the Act of 1978 were made by S.I. 1978/997, 1489 and 1490 (for scotland) and 1979/731.